Buying and Storing Eggplant

Buying Eggplant:

Not many people know it, but eggplant is actually a fruit and not a vegetable. It is party of the nightshade family and is closely related to the tomato.

Eggplant is very delicate and should be used in a few days. The eggplant we pick should have a smooth and shiny skin that is the same color all over. When picking them up they should feel heavy in size.

We can tell if an eggplant is ripe by pressing it with our finger. If it leaves a light imprint then we know its ripe and ready for use.
 

Storing Eggplant:

Eggplant isn’t a fruit that keeps long so really we want to use it within 2-3 days of purchase. We can store eggplant either on the counter or in the refrigerator.

When storing outside of the refrigerator make sure you store in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight. Eggplant is very fragile and any bruising or exposure of the skin will cause it to go bad fast.

If you want to keep the eggplant for 3-4 days then the best place is the refrigerator. Make sure you put it in a perforated plastic bag and wrap it in a paper towel.

Tip: These Ziploc bags are great for storing eggplants and other fruits & vegetables. They allow air flow and help keep the moisture out, allowing your fresh produce to last longer.
 

What Not To Do With Eggplant:

• Avoid Bruised or Soft Eggplants: These are likely going bad, and if you aren’t planning to use them within a few hours of purchase they won’t make it over night.
• Put In Direct Sunlight: Eggplant is a nightshade fruit, it shouldn’t be stored in direct sunlight.
• Never Store In An Airtight Plastic Bag: This will restrict airflow and cause the eggplant to spoil faster.